Find Cheap Car Insurance in Bakersfield, CA

Learn More about Auto Insurance in Bakersfield, California

Bakersfield is one of the most dynamic cities in California. With a population of over 410,000 people, this city boasts a rich agricultural heritage and a delightful year-round climate. From its museums to picturesque parks, Bakersfield offers something for everyone to enjoy. Some of the most iconic places are the Crystal Palace, the Kern County Museum, and the historic Padre Hotel.

If you’re a driver in California, having auto protection is a must. Luckily, Acceptance Insurance has your back. Agents at Acceptance understand that not everyone has a spotless driving record and so they specialize in providing affordable and reliable car insurance in California for everyone. Keep reading to learn all the details about automobile coverage in the region and the most effective keys to saving without sacrificing your safety while driving.

In Bakersfield, drivers usually shell out around $49 a month for basic liability auto insurance. Surprisingly, that’s $3 less than the national average of $52 and $4 below California’s average of $53.

But if you’re seeking more extensive coverage, full auto insurance tends to cost approximately $190 per month. That’s on par with California’s average monthly car insurance cost of $190 and a tad pricier than the national average of $168 per month.

Reasons Why Insurance is so Expensive in California

Car insurance rates in the Golden State are comparatively steep due to several factors. First, California boasts the largest population in the nation. A high population density often translates to an increased frequency of accidents and claims, which in turn leads to higher premiums for policyholders.

Additionally, major urban areas have significant traffic congestion. These challenging traffic conditions raise the risk level of the region, consequently driving up insurance prices across the board.

Furthermore, California is prone to frequent natural disasters like earthquakes, wildfires and floods. These unpredictable events pose unique challenges for insurance providers, as they may result in large-scale claims.

Lastly, the cost of living in California surpasses many other areas in the country. With a higher cost of living, expenses for car repairs and medical care are naturally more substantial, prompting insurance companies to adjust their rates accordingly.

Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions when choosing your insurance plan. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to your local insurance agent to explore the different types of auto insurance in-depth.

Check out the table below for a comparison of car insurance costs in different cities across California:

Compare Car Insurance Rates by Zip Code in Bakersfield

Did you know that your zip code plays a big role in how much you’ll pay for car insurance? If you live in a busy area with lots of traffic and accidents, you might see higher premiums. That’s because urban drivers face a greater risk of getting into accidents, which drives up insurance costs.

Bakersfield has 11 zip codes. See the table below for average car insurance costs, both for the state’s minimum coverage and full auto coverage.

Low-Cost Car Insurance Rates by Age in Bakersfield

Age is another aspect that insurers take into account when calculating your vehicle coverage costs. It’s worth noting that adult policies are often less expensive compared to teenagers who have just obtained their licenses. This is because adults typically have more driving experience and are considered less risky for insurers.

The chart below provides you with a breakdown of these costs. Remember, auto insurance for teens tends to be higher due to their limited experience behind the wheel.

*To calculate average costs, we utilize the following method: a 30-year-old male, with state minimum liability and full coverage of 100/300/100.

How Many Fatal Accidents Happen Per Year in Bakersfield, California?

According to statistics from the Traffic Safety Facts Annual Reports presented by the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), the annual number of traffic accidents in the city of Bakersfield ranges from 30 to 50 fatalities.

In 2021, there were 53 fatal accidents, with 4 involving pedestrians. These numbers are comparable to the figures from 2020, which recorded 51 total fatalities (including 3 pedestrians). However, they are higher than the statistics from 2019, when there were 36 traffic fatalities, including 3 pedestrians.

Are Road Infrastructure and Bridges in Bakersfield well maintained?

The streets and overall infrastructure of the city of Bakersfield are in good condition, thanks to the efforts of the public works division working diligently to enhance safety for pedestrians, students, bicyclists, and drivers.

Some of the most significant projects they have undertaken include:

• Centennial Corridor: Constructing a new alignment for State Route 58 and improving State Route 99 from Gilmore Avenue to Wilson Road.
• 24th Street Improvements: Widening and realigning 24th Street from west of State Route 99 to east of M Street, including Oak Street/24th Street intersection.
• Hageman Flyover: Building a four-lane road with a new bridge over the railroad line and freeway, widening the bridge over Airport Drive, and modifying ramps at the Airport Drive/Golden State Avenue interchange.

These projects aim to improve traffic flow and road conditions within the city.

In Bakersfield, just like in other cities in California, the state law sets the minimum liability requirements for motorists. To meet these requirements, a basic liability policy in California must provide:

• At least $15,000 of bodily injury or death liability insurance per person involved in an accident, with a minimum of $30,000 per accident. This coverage is in place to protect you and others in case of injuries or loss of life.
• Additionally, it is required to have a minimum of $5,000 of property damage liability insurance. This coverage helps cover the costs of any damage caused to someone else’s property.

Consider that these are the minimum requirements, and it’s always a good idea to have additional coverage to fully protect yourself on the road.

Driving without insurance in Bakersfield may result in penalties such as fines ranging from $100 to $200 for first-time offenders, increasing to $300 to $500 for subsequent offenses within three years.

In addition, your vehicle could be impounded by California courts until proof of insurance is provided, and your registration may be revoked if you have an accident without insurance coverage. To avoid these penalties, ensure you have the required minimum protection according to California’s car insurance requirements and coverage.

There are several factors that can affect your auto insurance rates. Some of the key variables include your age, location, and marital status. Insurers also take into account your driving record and history, such as any past accidents or traffic violations.

The type of car you drive, including its make, model, and year, is also considered. Other factors that can impact your premiums include your level of education and occupation.

Additionally, the coverage options and deductibles you choose will influence your premiums. By understanding how these factors come into play, you can make informed decisions to potentially find ways to lower your auto insurance rates.

Driving in California comes with a set of important rules and guidelines. Taking the time to understand and familiarize yourself with these laws is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

First and foremost, ensure that you have a valid driver’s license to drive in California. If you’re an international visitor, it would be wise to carry an International Driving Permit in addition to your home country’s license.

When it comes to safety, always buckle up yourself and all passengers in the front seats. And don’t forget about the little ones – children under 8 years old should be secured in proper child restraint systems or booster seats in the back.

Observe and obey the speed limits, especially keeping an eye out for variable limits, such as those in construction zones. Generally, highways in California have speed limits ranging from 65 to 70 mph.

Driving under the influence is strictly prohibited in California. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08%. Violating this law can have serious consequences, including the request of DUI insurance.

Remember to use your turn signals to indicate your intentions before changing lanes or making a turn. Yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and follow right-of-way rules when approaching intersections. And always come to a complete stop at stop signs and adhere to traffic signals.

Lastly, take note of parking regulations. Familiarize yourself with parking restrictions and avoid parking in designated areas such as fire hydrants or disabled spots without proper permits.

There are many smart ways to obtain lower auto insurance premiums. It’s all about maintaining a responsible driving record and seeking guidance from your local agent regarding available discounts within the area.

Some of the most popular types of car insurance discounts in Bakersfield include: